Retail Custom Framer

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Retail Custom Framer Company: Michaels Stores Location: St. George, Utah, United States Job Type: Part-Time Category: Retail Operations / Custom Framing Date Posted: February 15, 2026 Experience Level: Entry-Level to Mid-Level (0-2 years) Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Drive customer engagement and sales by providing expert custom framing solutions in a retail environment.
• Ensure high-quality, on-time production of custom framing orders, adhering strictly to Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).
• Maintain exceptional store presentation and customer service standards across all sales and production areas.
• Contribute to overall store operations, including inventory management, stock handling, and point-of-sale transactions.
• Foster a positive and productive work environment through strong interpersonal skills and adherence to company values.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is specifically focused on the custom framing department within a larger retail operation. The emphasis is on sales, craftsmanship, and customer relationship management within this specialized area, rather than broad retail operations.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Customer Engagement & Sales:
  • Build strong customer relationships by actively engaging with shoppers and understanding their framing needs.
  • Utilize Elevated ABC Delivery methods to consult with customers and design personalized custom framing solutions.
  • Drive Custom Framing sales and achieve established production and revenue targets.
  • Provide a memorable and positive customer experience, ensuring satisfaction with both product and service.
• Production & Quality Assurance:
  • Accurately measure, cut, assemble, and finish custom framing orders according to design specifications and quality standards.
  • Operate framing equipment, including mat cutters and glass cutters, with precision and safety.
  • Ensure all framing orders are completed on time and meet Michaels' quality benchmarks.
  • Maintain the ready-made frame department and other assigned areas, including SISO (Ship-from-Store) and Directed Replenishment processes.
• Store Operations & Merchandising:
  • Greet and acknowledge customers, assist them in locating products, and offer solutions to their creative needs.
  • Maintain a safe, clean, and clutter-free environment throughout the store and the frame shop.
  • Assist with inventory management, including truck unloads and stocking processes, ensuring adherence to store standards.
  • Operate the cash register and execute cash handling procedures accurately and efficiently.
• Teamwork & Compliance:
  • Adhere to all Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and company programs to ensure compliance and operational excellence.
  • Support company-wide shrink reduction and safety programs.
  • Interact positively and respectfully with colleagues, management, and customers, acting as a role model.
  • Participate in cross-functional tasks as assigned, contributing to overall store success.
  • Assist with Omni-channel processes, such as online order fulfillment and customer pick-ups.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a dual role: a skilled artisan in custom framing and a customer-facing sales associate. The emphasis on "Elevated ABC Deliver" suggests a specific sales methodology focused on consultation and relationship building, which is crucial for custom sales.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• High school diploma or equivalent strongly preferred.
• Post-secondary education in art, design, or a related field is a plus but not required.

Experience:

• 0-2 years of experience in a retail or customer-facing service role.
• Demonstrated ability to learn and execute specific technical processes.

Required Skills:

• Basic Computer Skills: Proficiency in using point-of-sale (POS) systems, basic data entry, and potentially online order management interfaces.
• Measuring & Fabrication Skills: Accurate measurement abilities and hands-on aptitude for using tools and equipment.
• Customer Service Excellence: Ability to build rapport, actively listen to customer needs, and provide solutions with a friendly and helpful demeanor.
• Sales Acumen: Aptitude for understanding customer needs and translating them into product sales, particularly in a consultative selling environment.
• Operational Adherence: Willingness and ability to follow Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and company guidelines meticulously.
• Team Collaboration: Ability to work effectively as part of a retail team, supporting colleagues and contributing to a positive store atmosphere.

Preferred Skills:

• Retail Experience: Prior experience in a retail setting, ideally within a specialty or custom products environment.
• Sales Experience: Proven track record of successfully selling products or services, with an ability to close sales and meet targets.
• Framing or Art Handling Experience: Previous experience with custom framing, art handling, mat cutting, or woodworking is highly advantageous.
• Equipment Operation: Familiarity with operating machinery such as mat cutters, glass cutters, and potentially heat presses.

📝 Enhancement Note: The minimum requirements are quite basic, suggesting a strong training program. The "Preferred Skills" section is where candidates with relevant experience will stand out, particularly those with direct custom framing or consultative sales backgrounds.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• While a formal portfolio is not explicitly requested for this entry-level role, candidates are encouraged to highlight any relevant past projects or achievements in their application or during interviews.
• Examples could include:
  • Personal art projects involving framing or display.
  • Examples of customer service success stories or sales achievements.
  • Documented instances of process improvement or efficiency gains in previous roles.
  • Demonstrations of problem-solving skills related to production or customer issues.

Process Documentation:

• Candidates should be prepared to discuss their understanding of and adherence to established processes.
• Focus on:
  • Following Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for sales, production, and store operations.
  • Understanding workflow for custom framing orders, from consultation to final product.
  • Adherence to safety protocols for equipment and store environment.
  • Efficiency in task completion, particularly regarding order fulfillment and stocking.

📝 Enhancement Note: Given the retail and entry-level nature of the role, a formal portfolio is less critical than demonstrating an understanding of and willingness to follow established processes and SOPs. Highlighting soft skills and past successes in customer interaction and sales will be more impactful.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• As a Part-Time Retail Custom Framer position in St. George, Utah, the estimated hourly wage typically ranges from $12.00 to $16.00 per hour. This estimate is based on industry benchmarks for similar roles in retail, customer service, and specialized craft positions within the US, adjusted for the St. George, Utah cost of living and Michaels' known compensation structures for part-time retail associates. Factors such as prior experience, specific skills, and performance during the hiring process may influence the final offer.

Benefits:

• Health Insurance: Access to medical, dental, and vision insurance plans (eligibility may vary based on hours worked and tenure).
• Paid Time Off (PTO): Accrued paid time off for eligible team members.
• Tuition Assistance: Support for continuing education and skill development.
• Employee Discounts: Generous discounts on Michaels products and services, including custom framing.
• Retirement Savings Plan: Options for saving for the future.
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP): Resources for personal and professional support.

Working Hours:

• This is a Part-Time position.
• Working hours will vary based on business needs and scheduling, often including nights, weekends, and early mornings.
• Employees are expected to be available for a flexible schedule to cover store operating hours and peak business periods.

📝 Enhancement Note: Salary estimate is based on general retail part-time roles in the US and St. George, Utah. Specific benefits eligibility often depends on the number of hours worked per week for part-time employees.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Arts and Crafts Retail, Custom Framing Manufacturing (Artistree subsidiary). Company Size: Michaels operates over 1,300 stores across North America, indicating a large, established retail presence. Founded: 1973, headquartered in Irving, Texas.

Team Structure:

• The Retail Custom Framer will be part of a local store team, reporting to store leadership (e.g., Store Manager, Assistant Manager, or Framing Department Manager).
• They will work closely with other sales associates and support staff.
• Collaboration with the Artistree manufacturing arm for complex or specialized framing needs may occur behind the scenes.

Methodology:

• Customer-Centric Approach: Emphasis on building relationships and providing tailored solutions.
• Sales-Driven Operations: Focus on achieving sales targets and driving revenue through consultative selling.
• Process Adherence: Strong reliance on Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for consistent execution of tasks and services.
• Quality Craftsmanship: Commitment to delivering high-quality custom framing products.
• Team Collaboration: Encouragement of mutual support and positive interaction among team members.

Company Website: https://www.michaels.com/

📝 Enhancement Note: Michaels positions itself as a leader in creative products and custom framing. The culture likely emphasizes creativity, customer service, and operational efficiency within a structured retail environment.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is an entry-level to mid-level position within the retail operations framework, specifically focused on the specialized area of custom framing. It requires a blend of customer service, sales, and hands-on craft skills.

Reporting Structure: Reports to store management. Potential for advancement to lead framer, department supervisor, or other store leadership roles.

Operations Impact: The Retail Custom Framer directly impacts store revenue through custom framing sales and contributes to customer satisfaction and loyalty. Their work in creating high-quality custom pieces enhances the store's reputation for specialized services. Efficient production and accurate order fulfillment also contribute to operational efficiency and customer retention.

Growth Opportunities:

• Skill Development: Opportunity to become a highly skilled custom framer, mastering various techniques, materials, and design principles.
• Sales Progression: Develop advanced consultative selling skills, leading to higher sales performance and potential commissions or bonuses if applicable.
• Leadership Potential: Advancement to roles such as Framing Department Lead, Assistant Store Manager, or Store Manager, requiring broader operational and people management skills.
• Cross-Training: Potential to gain experience in other store departments, broadening retail operational knowledge.
• Specialization: Deepen expertise in specific areas of framing, such as archival framing, shadow boxes, or complex design work.

📝 Enhancement Note: Growth within Michaels often follows a retail store hierarchy. For this role, advancement within the framing department is a primary path, with opportunities to move into general store management roles as well.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Public retail store setting. The work environment includes both customer-facing sales floor areas and a dedicated custom framing shop. Office Location(s): St. George, Utah - 313 S River Rd. The store is a climate-controlled environment, though some stock rooms may not be climate-controlled. Outdoor work may be required for tasks like retrieving shopping carts or during truck unloading.

Workspace Context:

• Customer Interaction: Frequent interaction with customers in a dynamic retail setting.
• Craftsmanship Area: The frame shop is equipped with specialized tools such as glass cutters and heat presses, requiring a focus on precision and safety.
• Team Collaboration: Opportunities to collaborate with fellow team members on sales floor coverage, stocking, and customer service initiatives.
• Technology Integration: Use of POS systems, potentially basic computer systems for order management, and framing software.

Work Schedule:

• Flexible scheduling is a key aspect, as this is a part-time role.
• Employees must be available to work nights, weekends, and potentially early mornings to meet business demands.
• The role requires standing for long periods and involves physical tasks like lifting heavy boxes and frames, bending, and reaching.

📝 Enhancement Note: The environment is a typical retail setting with the added complexity of a specialized craft area. Safety and adherence to specific operating procedures in the frame shop are paramount.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Application review and potentially a brief phone screen to assess basic qualifications and interest.
• In-Person Interview: Typically involves a one-on-one or panel interview with store management.
  • Focus Areas: Customer service philosophy, sales approach, problem-solving skills, ability to learn technical skills, and cultural fit.
  • Behavioral Questions: Expect questions about past experiences dealing with challenging customers, handling sales, working in a team, and following procedures.
  • Situational Questions: Scenarios related to custom framing consultations, production issues, or customer complaints.
• Skills Assessment (Informal): May involve a brief demonstration of basic measuring skills or a discussion about how they would approach a framing consultation.
• Final Offer: Based on interview performance, assessment, and background checks.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• While a formal portfolio isn't required, prepare to discuss any relevant past projects or experiences.
• For customer service or sales achievements, use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your responses.
• If you have examples of creative projects or custom work, be ready to describe them and the process involved.
• Highlight any experience where you had to learn a new skill or operate specialized equipment.

Challenge Preparation:

• Be ready to discuss how you would approach a customer looking for framing advice. Think about:
  • Asking clarifying questions about the artwork and its intended location.
  • Understanding the customer's budget and aesthetic preferences.
  • Explaining different framing options and materials.
  • Discussing production timelines and quality assurance.
• Practice explaining how you ensure accuracy and quality in your work.
• Prepare to articulate your understanding of sales goals and how you would contribute to achieving them.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process will likely focus heavily on customer service, sales aptitude, and the ability to learn technical skills. Practical demonstrations or discussions about hypothetical scenarios will be common.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Custom Framing Equipment:
  • Mat Cutters: Essential for precise cutting of mats to fit artwork.
  • Glass Cutters: For custom sizing of glass or acrylic for frames.
  • Framing Assembly Tools: Such as underpinner/joiner, staple guns, and glue applicators for assembling frames.
  • Heat Press: Potentially used for mounting or laminating.
• Measuring Tools: Tape measures, rulers, calipers for accurate dimensions.
• Hand Tools: Knives, screwdrivers, pliers, etc., for various assembly tasks.

Analytics & Reporting:

• POS System: For processing sales transactions, managing customer accounts, and potentially tracking sales performance.
• Inventory Management System: To track stock levels of framing materials, ready-made frames, and supplies.

CRM & Automation:

• Customer Relationship Management (CRM) Software: Potentially integrated into the POS or a separate system to manage customer contact information, order history, and preferences.
• Framing Design Software: May be used to visualize framing options for customers and generate order details.

📝 Enhancement Note: Proficiency with basic measuring and manual fabrication tools is essential. Familiarity with POS systems is standard for retail roles. The company likely provides specific training on their framing equipment and software.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Creativity & Passion: Encouraging the joy of creating and celebrating through art and craft.
• Customer Focus: Prioritizing customer needs and satisfaction through excellent service and tailored solutions.
• Quality & Craftsmanship: Commitment to delivering high-quality custom framing products and services.
• Teamwork & Respect: Fostering a supportive and collaborative environment where all team members are valued.
• Integrity & Accountability: Adhering to company policies, ethical practices, and taking responsibility for actions.
• Efficiency & Productivity: Striving for operational excellence in sales, production, and store management.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-functional Integration: Working seamlessly with other store associates to ensure smooth customer flow and efficient operations.
• Customer Consultation: Collaborative approach with customers to design and deliver their perfect framing solution.
• Knowledge Sharing: Willingness to share best practices and assist colleagues, particularly within the framing department.
• Feedback Exchange: Openness to receiving and providing constructive feedback to improve performance and processes.

📝 Enhancement Note: The culture at Michaels likely blends a passion for arts and crafts with the demands of a high-volume retail environment. Teamwork and a customer-first attitude are probably central to daily operations.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Sales and Production: Effectively managing customer consultations and sales while also meeting production deadlines for custom framing orders.
• Complex Customer Needs: Handling diverse customer requests, from simple prints to valuable artwork, requiring creative problem-solving and material knowledge.
• Technical Skill Development: Mastering the operation of framing equipment and fabrication techniques to ensure high-quality output.
• Shrink Management: Contributing to efforts to minimize inventory loss through careful handling and accurate transactions.
• Pace of Retail: Adapting to the fast-paced retail environment, including peak seasons and unexpected demands.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Framing Craftsmanship: Extensive training on custom framing techniques, design principles, material selection, and equipment operation.
• Sales & Customer Service Training: Development of consultative selling skills, customer engagement strategies, and conflict resolution techniques.
• Product Knowledge: Deepening understanding of the full range of Michaels products, from art supplies to home decor.
• Retail Operations: Gaining experience in various store functions, including inventory, visual merchandising, and POS operations.
• Career Advancement: Clear pathways for growth into leadership roles within Michaels stores.

📝 Enhancement Note: The role offers a solid foundation in both retail sales and a specialized craft. The challenges are typical for a hybrid role, requiring adaptability and a commitment to continuous learning.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• Customer Consultation: "Describe how you would consult with a customer bringing in a valuable piece of artwork for framing. What questions would you ask, and how would you guide them through the options?"
  • Preparation: Think about the customer journey from initial inquiry to final product. Consider asking about the artwork's significance, its intended display location, budget, and aesthetic preferences. Be ready to discuss different matting, framing materials, and glass options.
• Sales & Goal Achievement: "This role requires meeting sales goals for custom framing. How would you approach selling custom framing to customers, and what strategies would you use to ensure you meet your targets?"
  • Preparation: Focus on consultative selling. Emphasize understanding customer needs, highlighting the value and longevity of custom framing, upselling complementary products (like display cases or art supplies), and building rapport.
• Problem-Solving: "Imagine a customer is unhappy with a finished framing order. How would you handle this situation?"
  • Preparation: Use the STAR method. Focus on active listening, empathy, understanding the root cause of the issue, identifying potential solutions (e.g., remaking a component, offering a discount), and escalating to management if necessary.

Company & Culture Questions:

• "Why are you interested in working for Michaels, specifically in a custom framing role?"
  • Preparation: Research Michaels' mission and values. Connect your interest to your passion for creativity, art, customer service, or craftsmanship. Mention your desire to develop skills in custom framing.
• "How do you handle working in a team environment, and what is your approach to collaboration?"
  • Preparation: Provide examples of successful teamwork in previous roles. Highlight your willingness to help others, communicate effectively, and contribute to a positive team atmosphere.
• "How do you ensure quality and accuracy in your work, especially when dealing with detailed tasks like framing?"
  • Preparation: Discuss your attention to detail, your process for double-checking measurements and work, and your commitment to following SOPs and quality standards.

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• If you have relevant examples (even personal projects), be prepared to briefly describe:
  • The project's objective.
  • The materials and techniques used.
  • The challenges you faced and how you overcame them.
  • The final outcome and any lessons learned.
• Focus on demonstrating your problem-solving skills, creativity, and attention to detail.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interviews will likely assess your customer service skills, sales potential, and ability to learn technical craft. Be prepared with specific examples and a clear understanding of how you would contribute to the store's success.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

• Submit your application through the Michaels Careers portal via the provided link.
• Resume Optimization: Tailor your resume to highlight any experience in customer service, sales, arts and crafts, or hands-on fabrication. Quantify achievements where possible (e.g., "Increased custom framing sales by X%," "Handled an average of Y customer consultations per day"). Use keywords from the job description such as "custom framing," "customer service," "sales," "production," and "retail operations."
• Portfolio Preparation (Optional but Recommended): Gather examples of past creative projects, framing work, or instances where you demonstrated exceptional customer service or sales skills. Be ready to describe these using the STAR method.
• Interview Practice: Rehearse answers to common interview questions, focusing on your customer service approach, sales aptitude, problem-solving skills, and willingness to learn. Practice articulating how you would consult with a framing customer and sell custom solutions.
• Company Research: Familiarize yourself with Michaels' brand, its commitment to creativity, and its approach to customer service. Understand the importance of the custom framing department to the overall business.

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description includes AI-generated insights and operations industry-standard assumptions. All details should be verified directly with the hiring organization before making application decisions.